Humans have always possessed the desire to explore, with a soul-deep yearning to “know” what surrounds one’s own home, neighborhood and city. Exploring new places near where we live can be a wonderful experience. We return home enriched, renewed and enlightened by our explorations.
And, the amazing month of April is the perfect time to get out and about in southern Utah.
Whether traveling solo, duo or with family and friends, there’s much to discover nearby.
Water Canyon Resort
Sometimes it takes is a change of scenery to rehydrate our lives. Water Canyon Resort is just the place to discover or rediscover the beauty of nature. The resort is located in, and surrounded by, the unique red rock landscapes of Hildale. Guest studios, almost 500 square feet each, are elegant and classy. Each studio has its own private courtyard with a fire pit and a small grill top. Propane grills are also available upon request. The majestic Waterfall Trailhead is only a bike ride away. Water Canyon Winery, just steps away from the resort, opens its doors and garden to the public this month. The winery will feature wine tastings for individuals and groups, winery tours, wine education classes and special events. Visit watercanyonwinery.com for more information.
840 N. Maple St., Hildale, tel. 435.525.1110
watercanyonresort.com
Kanab Creek Bakery
I once drove 90 miles from Ivins to Kanab, just to buy a dozen croissants at the Kanab Creek Bakery. Why? Because the bakery exemplifies two qualities I admire greatly, in individuals and businesses: consistency and perfection.
Kanab Creek Bakery has created a unique cultural experience for diners. Wood-fired oven preparation is the culinary method that has contributed to its success. This old world tool is used in the preparation of many of the hot food menu items. Traditional croque-madame cooked in a cast iron skillet before being paired with an egg, sunny-side up, is one of the bakery's signature dishes, coupled with the freshly-baked European bread and pastries. This is food to "live" for and well worth the drive from St. George.
238 W. Center St., Kanab, tel. 435.644.5689
kanabcreekbakery.com
Maynard Dixon Legacy Museum
Maynard Dixon, a prominent artist in the 1920s through 1940s, is best known for his landscape paintings of the American West. He moved to Mount Carmel in 1939, shortly after marrying Edith Hamlin, a muralist from San Francisco. The Dixons spent their summers in the home, which is now a museum in Mount Carmel. Maynard died in 1946, and Edith brought his ashes back to his Mount Carmel home. Shortly afterward, Edith ordered the construction of a painting studio on the lot, where she created several of her notable works. The property is currently owned by Paul and Susan Bingham, and is on the National Register of Historic Places. They founded, in 1999, the Thunderbird Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a mission to preserve and maintain the Maynard Dixon home and property in Mount Carmel.
Pack a picnic lunch, bring paper and pencils and plan on spending several hours touring the grounds and being inspired by the artwork and history.
Thunderbird Foundation, 2200 S. State St., Mt. Carmel, tel. 435.648.2653
maynarddixonlegacymuseum.com
Moqui Cave
Moqui Cave is a museum depicting life in southern Utah, spanning the centuries. It houses Native American artifacts, dinosaur tracks, fluorescent minerals and rocks and fossils. This is the perfect place for children and adults of all ages to explore.
4581 Highway 89, Kanab, tel. 435.644.8525
moqui-cave.com